Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area, National Forest in North Central Idaho

162 6th Ave. North
Twin Falls, Idaho
August 31, ‘77
Dear Senator Church,
You are quoted in tonight's Times News as saying, 'Most of the comment I
have received (on the canal treaty) has been unfavorable.' If my contrary
comment is important, you have it. And while I’m about it, I applaud your
stance on Steve Symms' efforts at divisiveness re the Gospel-Hump area
and corvllary remarks in last night 1 s paper about our 'Right-Wing congressmen•.
VERI nice! With luck and cash Steve Kress may change that picture
a bit. ( Would that I had cash instead of voluntary unemployment and an
impressive resume'.)
An while I'm about it, I'm sorry you didn't take the California Primary.
I was there, and some of us tried.
Sincerely,
Lucy Hovenden
September 27, 1977
Albert Van S. Pulling
Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho 83209
Dear Pierre:
Thank you for your long letter of September 8. It was
good to hear from you. I was sorry to learn about your
wife, and I hope all goeswell.
On the Gospel-Hump compromise, opponents would have Idahoans
believe it was somehow "forced" upon the local community
by the Sierra Club. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Representatives of the Grangeville Chamber of Commerce sat
down with a number of conservationists and over a period of
weeks worked out a compromise on how to provide for the future
management of the Gospel-Hump region. It was a magnificent
example of cooperation and goodwill on the part of those on
both aides of the issue. It not only provides for wilderness,
but for comprehensive development of local timber resources.
I have introduced legislation to implement the local agreement,
and hearing have been held in Idaho. Changes may have
to be made (that a part of the legislative process), but it
is a good start toward resolving a controversial issue, and
Idahoans should take pride in the fact that two aides of a
highly controversial issue were able to sit down and work out
a common agreement. I'm glad to know that the compromise has
your support.
On the question of the Panama Canal, I think the most important
Question is our continued access to this waterway.
Our military experts, including the Joint Chiefs, agree that
a new treaty is essential if we are to protect our access. A
single hand grenade could disrupt operations, and General
Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, has told me that it would
take 100,000 troops to keep the canal open should hostilities
break out. While I have endorsed the need for a new treaty,
it mayy be that the Senate will wish to attach "reservations"
to more completely protect U.S. interests. In any event, my
final vote will be guided by what I perceive to be the beat
interests of the United States, including our military needs.
Albert Van S. Pulling
September 27, 1977
Page 2
Regarding veterans pensions, I appreciate having your
suggestions. As you know, I have long supported an unrestricted
pension for World War One. The action in the House
is a hopeful sign, and you can be assured of my continued
support.
I also appreciate having your thoughts about
horse and burro problem, and Indian sovereignty.
certainly two sticky problems which will continue
discussed in Congress. I'll remember your letter
suggestions as this debate continues.
Thanks again for taking the time to write, Pierre.
With best wishes
Sincerely,
Frank Church
The Wilderness Society . August 29, 1977
LETTERS NEEDED
Dear Friend of Idaho Wilderness,
LETTERS ARE NEEDED from Idaho wilderness advocates to Senators Frank
Church and James McClure in support of the proposed 220,000 acre Gospel Hump
Wilderness Area on the Nezperce National Forest in north central Idaho.
SENATOR CHURCH has introduced legislation (Amendment No. 826 to the
Endangered American Wilderness Act, S. 1180) which, if enacted into law,
would establish an instant 220,000 acre Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area. This
is the wilderness proposal reached after lengthy "negotiations" between
the Grangeville Chamber of Commerce and representatives of the. Idaho Environmental
Council, the Sierra Club, and the Wilderness Society·. It is a compromise
proposal --approximately 123,000 acres of high-quality road less and
undeveloped land surrounding the proposed wilderness would be made available
for logging, mining, off-road vehicle recreation, and other non-wilderness
activities -- and thus, like any compromise, it is less than ideal. However,
our failure to whole-heartedly support Amendment No. 826 will likely result
in less wilderness, not more, for the Gospel-Hump area.
SENATOR CHURCH has not given his unequivocable support to the compromise
proposal -- he has merely introduced the amendment to "get the ball
rolling in Congress." He is receiving substantial opposition to the proposed
compromise from the mining industry, the off-road vehicle crowd, and
~he Bircher/Symms crazies. It is crucial that each of you, and your friends,
write soon to Senator Church, thanking him for his introduction of Amendment
No. 826, and urging him to support the compromise proposal for an instant
2?0,000 acre Gospel-Hump Wilderness area.
SENATOR McCLURE has introduced "alternative" legislation, S. 2035,
which would not create an instant Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area. Instead,
S. 2035 would establish a 220,000 acre Gospel-Hump "Wilderness Study Area,"
which then would be subject to further review and hearings. It also would
make the 123,000 acres of roadless and undeveloped land surrounding the .
Wilderness Study Area available for road construction and logging. Thus,
McClure's bill would put into effect one-half of the citizens' compromise
the half advocated by wilderness opponents -- while "our half'' of the compromise
would be subjected to further delay, with no guarantee that it would
ever be implemented.
McCLURE'S BILL is strongly supported by the Idaho Mining Association,
which claims that the proposed Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area "has excellent
potential for mineral production," despite the fact that little mineral
production has occured in the area since the turn of the century. The
more likely prospects for mineral production, in the vicinity of Buffalo
Hump and Humptown, would be excluded from the proposed instant Wilderness
Area, and thus would be available for development -- even if Senator Church's
Amendment No. 826 becomes law.
-OVER-
GOVERNOR EVANS testified at the Senate hearing on the proposed Gospel-Hump
compromise in Grangeville on August 24, 1977, and was strong in his
support for Senator Church's proposed Amendment No. 826 to the Endangered
American Wilderness Act. Governor Evans deserves a deskful of letters thanking
him for his support of the compromise, and urging him to stand tough
against growing pressure from the miners and ORVers.
BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE HEARING RECORD will remain open until September
7, 1977. We need lots of letters to Senators Church and McClure
·during the next two weeks in full support of the "citizens • · compromise"
and· instant wilderness. (not "Wilderness Study Area" designation) for the
proposed 220,000 acre Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area. Won't you each write
and get your friends to write -- in support of Senator Church's Amendment
No. 826 to the Endangered American Wilderness Act?
LETTERS AND MAILGRAMS (except those to Governor Evans) should specify
that they are to be included in the hearing record for the August 24, 1977,
Seriate Parks and Recreation Subcommittee Hearing in Grangeville, Idaho.
They may be addressed to either Senator Church or McClure at the Senate
Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20510. Letters to Governor Evans may
be sent to the Statehouse,_ Boise, Idaho, 83707.
YOUR LETTERS ARE IMPORTANT! Please take a few minutes to write your
letter today, and then pass this alert on to a few of your friends. With
your help, Idaho may soon place another small piece of its vanishing backcountry
into the National Wilderness Preservation System.
:Yours for wilderness,
Dan Lechefsky
Idaho Regional Representative
Idaho Regional Representative
The Wilderness Society
PO Box 1166
Boise, Idaho 83701
Post Falls, Idaho
August 18, 1977
The Honorable Frank Church
United States Senator
Senate Office Building
Washington, D. C.
Dear Senator Church,
As a concerned citizen, I am writing you for the purpose of expressing
my views regarding certain matters which I consider of great importance
to Idaho and to America as a whole.
First, the proposed wilderness area, which I understand you are a
proponent of. Or perhaps you are a proponent of restricting the use
of gasoline powered vehicles in the wilderness area. This law, if
passed, would be a cruel and unjust persecution of those who have only
the week ends in which to enjoy the great outdoors. While only the
wealthy could have their camp gear packed in and set up, and spend
a month or more of vacationing. Just another theft of constitutional
rights of the poor and the middle class. Since I can remember, our
government in Washington, D.C. has been gradually stealing the rights
of those who pay the bills. The motto has always been, (Kill a snake
by stepping on its tail) Never using good judgment in anything except
wasting our money and getting us into entanglements. My suggestion
is to prosecute those who mess up the woodlands, chase game animals
etc. But for God's sake, do not take away everything the poor and middle
class have left.
Next, I will never support any man who advocates giving away the Panama
Canal, which we bought, built and own. The proposed treaty would only
open another door for the communists to get a foot hold, and we would
have another East Germany.
As for making up to Castro, I shudder when I hear of such a thing.
Cuba needs us and our money, with which congress has been so liberal,
both to foreigners and to themselves, Please ask yourself just how much
longer you think the middle class can pay for the poor, the loafers,
the horrible schools which furnish no real education, the monopolies
in industry, the incompetent Forest Service, the continued sprawl of
government bureaucracy, union influence with horribly high wages and
little accomplishment, subsidys to farmers who are no more deserving
than anyone else. It so happens that I myself have many many skills.
Having worked hard for money to start in business which proved a success.
Never asked for nor expected anyone to be taxed to pay me if I failed.
If we must pay for all the failures in our country, we cannot last
much longer as a nation. And last but not least, I believe that if
congress feels the need of a raise in salary, they should permit those
who pay their wages, have a vote on it. And if they cannot make a go
as a congressman, let them get out and find something at which they
are more competent. This.is not specifically meant as an insulting letter,.
but just a reminder of what I, as well as thousands of others view as
a sell out by government.
Sincerely,
John L. Callen, Sr. Retired and still being robbed.
October 12, 1977
Mary Meek
3300 Kelly Way
Boise, Idaho 83703
Dear Mary:
I appreciated the opportunity to talk with you during
my last visit home.
The boolets you gave me on energy contain some interesting
material. The League did an excellent job in presenting
the issues which confront the country in the energy
area.
The League's testimony on the Gospel Hump compromise
will be placed in the hearing record. Your thoughts on
this important issue will assist the Committee in its work.
I enjoyed our meeting and found it very productive. If
I can be of service, please do not hesitate to call upon me.
With best wishes,
Sincerely,
Frank Church
October 12, 1977
Beth Lindsay
5080 Wildrye Dr.
Boise, T1 ' • 83704
Dear Beth:
I appreciated having your recent: letter and enjoyed
our talks during my visit home and your visit: to Washington
with Ann Hansen.
The booklets you gave me on energy contain some interesting
material. The League did an excellent: job in presenting
the issues which confront the country in the energy
area.
will
this
The League testimony on the Gospel Hump compromise
be placed in the hearing record. Mour thoughts on
important issue will assist the Committee in its work.
As always, if I can ever be of service, please do not:
hesitate to call on me.
With best wishes,
Sincerely,
Frank Church

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Full Text

162 6th Ave. North
Twin Falls, Idaho
August 31, ‘77
Dear Senator Church,
You are quoted in tonight's Times News as saying, 'Most of the comment I
have received (on the canal treaty) has been unfavorable.' If my contrary
comment is important, you have it. And while I’m about it, I applaud your
stance on Steve Symms' efforts at divisiveness re the Gospel-Hump area
and corvllary remarks in last night 1 s paper about our 'Right-Wing congressmen•.
VERI nice! With luck and cash Steve Kress may change that picture
a bit. ( Would that I had cash instead of voluntary unemployment and an
impressive resume'.)
An while I'm about it, I'm sorry you didn't take the California Primary.
I was there, and some of us tried.
Sincerely,
Lucy Hovenden
September 27, 1977
Albert Van S. Pulling
Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho 83209
Dear Pierre:
Thank you for your long letter of September 8. It was
good to hear from you. I was sorry to learn about your
wife, and I hope all goeswell.
On the Gospel-Hump compromise, opponents would have Idahoans
believe it was somehow "forced" upon the local community
by the Sierra Club. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Representatives of the Grangeville Chamber of Commerce sat
down with a number of conservationists and over a period of
weeks worked out a compromise on how to provide for the future
management of the Gospel-Hump region. It was a magnificent
example of cooperation and goodwill on the part of those on
both aides of the issue. It not only provides for wilderness,
but for comprehensive development of local timber resources.
I have introduced legislation to implement the local agreement,
and hearing have been held in Idaho. Changes may have
to be made (that a part of the legislative process), but it
is a good start toward resolving a controversial issue, and
Idahoans should take pride in the fact that two aides of a
highly controversial issue were able to sit down and work out
a common agreement. I'm glad to know that the compromise has
your support.
On the question of the Panama Canal, I think the most important
Question is our continued access to this waterway.
Our military experts, including the Joint Chiefs, agree that
a new treaty is essential if we are to protect our access. A
single hand grenade could disrupt operations, and General
Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, has told me that it would
take 100,000 troops to keep the canal open should hostilities
break out. While I have endorsed the need for a new treaty,
it mayy be that the Senate will wish to attach "reservations"
to more completely protect U.S. interests. In any event, my
final vote will be guided by what I perceive to be the beat
interests of the United States, including our military needs.
Albert Van S. Pulling
September 27, 1977
Page 2
Regarding veterans pensions, I appreciate having your
suggestions. As you know, I have long supported an unrestricted
pension for World War One. The action in the House
is a hopeful sign, and you can be assured of my continued
support.
I also appreciate having your thoughts about
horse and burro problem, and Indian sovereignty.
certainly two sticky problems which will continue
discussed in Congress. I'll remember your letter
suggestions as this debate continues.
Thanks again for taking the time to write, Pierre.
With best wishes
Sincerely,
Frank Church
The Wilderness Society . August 29, 1977
LETTERS NEEDED
Dear Friend of Idaho Wilderness,
LETTERS ARE NEEDED from Idaho wilderness advocates to Senators Frank
Church and James McClure in support of the proposed 220,000 acre Gospel Hump
Wilderness Area on the Nezperce National Forest in north central Idaho.
SENATOR CHURCH has introduced legislation (Amendment No. 826 to the
Endangered American Wilderness Act, S. 1180) which, if enacted into law,
would establish an instant 220,000 acre Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area. This
is the wilderness proposal reached after lengthy "negotiations" between
the Grangeville Chamber of Commerce and representatives of the. Idaho Environmental
Council, the Sierra Club, and the Wilderness Society·. It is a compromise
proposal --approximately 123,000 acres of high-quality road less and
undeveloped land surrounding the proposed wilderness would be made available
for logging, mining, off-road vehicle recreation, and other non-wilderness
activities -- and thus, like any compromise, it is less than ideal. However,
our failure to whole-heartedly support Amendment No. 826 will likely result
in less wilderness, not more, for the Gospel-Hump area.
SENATOR CHURCH has not given his unequivocable support to the compromise
proposal -- he has merely introduced the amendment to "get the ball
rolling in Congress." He is receiving substantial opposition to the proposed
compromise from the mining industry, the off-road vehicle crowd, and
~he Bircher/Symms crazies. It is crucial that each of you, and your friends,
write soon to Senator Church, thanking him for his introduction of Amendment
No. 826, and urging him to support the compromise proposal for an instant
2?0,000 acre Gospel-Hump Wilderness area.
SENATOR McCLURE has introduced "alternative" legislation, S. 2035,
which would not create an instant Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area. Instead,
S. 2035 would establish a 220,000 acre Gospel-Hump "Wilderness Study Area,"
which then would be subject to further review and hearings. It also would
make the 123,000 acres of roadless and undeveloped land surrounding the .
Wilderness Study Area available for road construction and logging. Thus,
McClure's bill would put into effect one-half of the citizens' compromise
the half advocated by wilderness opponents -- while "our half'' of the compromise
would be subjected to further delay, with no guarantee that it would
ever be implemented.
McCLURE'S BILL is strongly supported by the Idaho Mining Association,
which claims that the proposed Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area "has excellent
potential for mineral production," despite the fact that little mineral
production has occured in the area since the turn of the century. The
more likely prospects for mineral production, in the vicinity of Buffalo
Hump and Humptown, would be excluded from the proposed instant Wilderness
Area, and thus would be available for development -- even if Senator Church's
Amendment No. 826 becomes law.
-OVER-
GOVERNOR EVANS testified at the Senate hearing on the proposed Gospel-Hump
compromise in Grangeville on August 24, 1977, and was strong in his
support for Senator Church's proposed Amendment No. 826 to the Endangered
American Wilderness Act. Governor Evans deserves a deskful of letters thanking
him for his support of the compromise, and urging him to stand tough
against growing pressure from the miners and ORVers.
BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE HEARING RECORD will remain open until September
7, 1977. We need lots of letters to Senators Church and McClure
·during the next two weeks in full support of the "citizens • · compromise"
and· instant wilderness. (not "Wilderness Study Area" designation) for the
proposed 220,000 acre Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area. Won't you each write
and get your friends to write -- in support of Senator Church's Amendment
No. 826 to the Endangered American Wilderness Act?
LETTERS AND MAILGRAMS (except those to Governor Evans) should specify
that they are to be included in the hearing record for the August 24, 1977,
Seriate Parks and Recreation Subcommittee Hearing in Grangeville, Idaho.
They may be addressed to either Senator Church or McClure at the Senate
Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20510. Letters to Governor Evans may
be sent to the Statehouse,_ Boise, Idaho, 83707.
YOUR LETTERS ARE IMPORTANT! Please take a few minutes to write your
letter today, and then pass this alert on to a few of your friends. With
your help, Idaho may soon place another small piece of its vanishing backcountry
into the National Wilderness Preservation System.
:Yours for wilderness,
Dan Lechefsky
Idaho Regional Representative
Idaho Regional Representative
The Wilderness Society
PO Box 1166
Boise, Idaho 83701
Post Falls, Idaho
August 18, 1977
The Honorable Frank Church
United States Senator
Senate Office Building
Washington, D. C.
Dear Senator Church,
As a concerned citizen, I am writing you for the purpose of expressing
my views regarding certain matters which I consider of great importance
to Idaho and to America as a whole.
First, the proposed wilderness area, which I understand you are a
proponent of. Or perhaps you are a proponent of restricting the use
of gasoline powered vehicles in the wilderness area. This law, if
passed, would be a cruel and unjust persecution of those who have only
the week ends in which to enjoy the great outdoors. While only the
wealthy could have their camp gear packed in and set up, and spend
a month or more of vacationing. Just another theft of constitutional
rights of the poor and the middle class. Since I can remember, our
government in Washington, D.C. has been gradually stealing the rights
of those who pay the bills. The motto has always been, (Kill a snake
by stepping on its tail) Never using good judgment in anything except
wasting our money and getting us into entanglements. My suggestion
is to prosecute those who mess up the woodlands, chase game animals
etc. But for God's sake, do not take away everything the poor and middle
class have left.
Next, I will never support any man who advocates giving away the Panama
Canal, which we bought, built and own. The proposed treaty would only
open another door for the communists to get a foot hold, and we would
have another East Germany.
As for making up to Castro, I shudder when I hear of such a thing.
Cuba needs us and our money, with which congress has been so liberal,
both to foreigners and to themselves, Please ask yourself just how much
longer you think the middle class can pay for the poor, the loafers,
the horrible schools which furnish no real education, the monopolies
in industry, the incompetent Forest Service, the continued sprawl of
government bureaucracy, union influence with horribly high wages and
little accomplishment, subsidys to farmers who are no more deserving
than anyone else. It so happens that I myself have many many skills.
Having worked hard for money to start in business which proved a success.
Never asked for nor expected anyone to be taxed to pay me if I failed.
If we must pay for all the failures in our country, we cannot last
much longer as a nation. And last but not least, I believe that if
congress feels the need of a raise in salary, they should permit those
who pay their wages, have a vote on it. And if they cannot make a go
as a congressman, let them get out and find something at which they
are more competent. This.is not specifically meant as an insulting letter,.
but just a reminder of what I, as well as thousands of others view as
a sell out by government.
Sincerely,
John L. Callen, Sr. Retired and still being robbed.
October 12, 1977
Mary Meek
3300 Kelly Way
Boise, Idaho 83703
Dear Mary:
I appreciated the opportunity to talk with you during
my last visit home.
The boolets you gave me on energy contain some interesting
material. The League did an excellent job in presenting
the issues which confront the country in the energy
area.
The League's testimony on the Gospel Hump compromise
will be placed in the hearing record. Your thoughts on
this important issue will assist the Committee in its work.
I enjoyed our meeting and found it very productive. If
I can be of service, please do not hesitate to call upon me.
With best wishes,
Sincerely,
Frank Church
October 12, 1977
Beth Lindsay
5080 Wildrye Dr.
Boise, T1 ' • 83704
Dear Beth:
I appreciated having your recent: letter and enjoyed
our talks during my visit home and your visit: to Washington
with Ann Hansen.
The booklets you gave me on energy contain some interesting
material. The League did an excellent: job in presenting
the issues which confront the country in the energy
area.
will
this
The League testimony on the Gospel Hump compromise
be placed in the hearing record. Mour thoughts on
important issue will assist the Committee in its work.
As always, if I can ever be of service, please do not:
hesitate to call on me.
With best wishes,
Sincerely,
Frank Church